What is the name of the immune response triggered by substances like pollen, dust, or pet dander?

The immune response triggered by substances such as pollen, dust, or pet dander is referred to as an allergy. Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to foreign substances that are typically harmless, known as allergens. This hypersensitivity can lead to a variety of symptoms, including sneezing, itching, rashes, and respiratory problems, as the body attempts to defend itself against these perceived threats.

In contrast, toxemia, autoimmunity, and infection represent different physiological phenomena. Toxemia refers to the presence of toxins in the blood, often connected with various medical conditions, while autoimmunity involves the immune system mistakenly attacking the body's own cells. Infection occurs when pathogenic microorganisms invade the body and invoke an immune response; however, it is not primarily triggered by environmental allergens. Thus, the term allergy specifically describes the unique and exaggerated immune response to typically non-threatening substances.